Transformation Project: Coal Bunker to Potting Shed

before after

We love a seeing a renovation project, do you? Join us as we transform a tired, dilapidated coal bunker, unfit for purpose, into a useful, attractive potting shed and relaxing retreat for our client.

The coal bunker really had seen better days: the joists were rotten and had dropped, the was roof sagged and ponded with water, the door frame was decayed, the flooring was a mess of make shift carpet and rotted wood and the gutter was completely broken. Even the staging inside was tired and failing. 

Time to repurpose and breathe new life into this disused space!

The Vision: Coal Bunker to Potting Shed

old bunker 1old bunker 2

The goal was clear: to repurpose this old coal shed above into a functional and charming potting shed. We envisioned a space where the homeowner could nurture plants, use as storage and enjoy a serene sanctuary at the bottom of the garden.

Here's how we brought this vision to life........

The Transformation Journey

Step 1: Clearing the Old and Making Safe

roof before

making safe

The first task was to remove the failing roof and make the electrics safe. This involved careful dismantling and ensuring that all electrical connections were secure, setting the stage for a safe working environment.

Step 2: Structural Adjustments

wall building

roof wall construction

To ensure proper drainage and structural integrity, we adjusted the exterior walls to achieve a greater than 5-degree fall. Blocks were added to one wall to support this new structure, and a new lintel was installed. This step was crucial in creating a stable and durable foundation for the new roof.

Step 3: Installing the New Roof

roof construction

roof in progress

new roof

With the groundwork laid, we moved on to installing new wall plates, joists, joist trusses, and restraint straps. The crowning glory was the new roof, made from 3-inch Vistalux heavy-duty corrugated PVC roofing sheets. This material was chosen for its durability and ability to let in ample natural light, perfect for a potting shed.

Step 4: Gutter Installation

new roof and gutter

Reusing parts of the old gutter where possible, we installed a new gutter system to ensure proper water drainage. This not only protected the structure but also ensured the longevity of our work.

Step 5: New Flooring

rotting floor

rotting floor 2

The old, rotten flooring had to go. We replaced it with robust 600 x 600 pavers, bordered with pea gravel. This not only provided a sturdy and attractive floor but also enhanced drainage and added to the shed's aesthetic appeal.

new floor

Step 6: Door and Staging Renovation

door before

rotting roof

The door frame was beyond saving but we saw potential in the old door itself. We removed the old frame and reused the door in a new opening, maintaining a touch of the original character. Inside, the tired staging was rebuilt using treated timbers, ensuring it would withstand the test of time and provide ample space for potting and storage.

new staging

The Final Result

after 2

after

The once decrepit coal bunker is now an appealing, functional potting shed, ready to serve its new purpose. The sturdy new roof, improved drainage, solid flooring, and revamped interior staging created a space that was not only practical but also inviting from the inside and outside.

The client was thrilled with the outcome and particularly thankful that we were able to source all materials and clear and dispose of all waste too so that no hassle at all was caused to their day to day life whilst work was in progress.

We were happy to have been able to help.

Why Choose Us for Your Next Project?

We are health and safety trained, fully DBS vetted, able to obtain and transport supplies, have many useful contacts within the renovation industry at our disposal and are skilled and experienced in various domains to help service your handyman needs and undertake refurbs.

If you have an old structure that needs repurposing or any handyman project in mind, our team is on hand to help and ready to bring your vision to life.

Contact us today for your free no obligation quote and let's see what we can do to enhance your property, whether commercial or domestic.

Talk to us about how our handyman services can help you.